Save face

Meaning

The idiom "save face" means to preserve one's reputation, honor, or dignity. It suggests that the person is trying to maintain a positive image or avoid embarrassment or shame. For example, if someone accidentally said something offensive, they might try to save face by apologizing profusely.

Usage

• After the customer complained about the service at the restaurant, the manager promised to make it right and "save face."
• The politician tried to "save face" by admitting the mistake and promising to correct it in the future.
• When her friend accidentally spilled coffee on her shirt, she quickly "saved face" by blotting it with a napkin and changing her blouse.
• The athlete tried to "save face" by denying any wrongdoing despite evidence against him.
• After the company's sales dropped, the CEO promised to "save face" by implementing new strategies and improving customer service. The usage of "save face" can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a positive or negative connotation. For example, someone might try to save face by apologizing profusely for an error they made, while another person might try to save face by denying any wrongdoing despite evidence against them.

Roots and History

The idiom "save face" has its roots in the Chinese language. The phrase "face-saving" was first used in English in the 19th century when British explorers were traveling to China. They encountered situations where they needed to save face with the locals, such as when they accidentally insulted someone or caused a commotion in public. Over time, the idiom became popular in Western cultures and took on the meaning of preserving one's reputation or dignity.

Synonyms in English

• Cover up
• Hide
• Keep up appearances
• Maintain dignity
• Preserve reputation

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: Guardar honor
• French: Mettre sa main sur son honneur
• German: Ehre behalten
• Italian: Salvare l'onore
• Japanese: 面白いまでに保つ (omoi ga aida ni haitu) - to keep up appearances until the end

Similar Idioms

• second wind

• screw up

• stay up